THE public is invited to give views on a scheme which supports and promotes the Welsh language.

The Welsh Assembly Government last week issued a consultation on the revised Welsh Language Scheme.

This initiative places the Assembly at the forefront of developing and promoting services in the Welsh language and ministers are keen to hear what people think of it.

It sets out how the Assembly will deliver Welsh language and bilingual services to the public and its customers, as well as ensuring departments in Cardiff treat both Welsh and English languages on a basis of equality.

“This scheme demonstrates the Welsh Assembly's commitment to supporting and promoting the Welsh language throughout all aspects of its work,” said Clwyd West AM Alun Pugh, who is minister for culture, Welsh language and sport.

“The Welsh language is integral to the identity of our nation and we will continue to do all we can to grow the language and create more opportunities for people to speak Welsh.

“We want the public to express their views on the scheme, so we can continue to develop the best possible services for the people of Wales.

“The original scheme was produced in 2002 and by updating it in 2006, we are reinforcing our commitment to the Welsh language.”

The eight-week consultation period will run until Thursday, November 16.

THE Food Standards Agency is warning people to avoid a certain batch of Sunnyglade canned baked beans with pork sausages in tomato sauce.

An error in the processing of the product has meant the contents of some of the cans have been undercooked and there is the potential for these to cause food poisoning, including botulism. The product is sold only in Lidl stores across the UK.

Product details:

The affected batch code is: 77LDL 6202 with time codes between 12:00 and 14:00; Best before date: July 2008; Can size: 420g

No other batches are understood to be affected.

People who have bought this product can return it to their nearest Lidl store where a refund will be given. They can also call Lidl Consumer Services help line on 0800 085 3959.

Lidl has recalled the affected products and placed adverts in the national media on Sunday, September 17. Point-of-sale notices are also being placed in Lidl stores to advise customers of the problem.

No respect

A TEENAGER stole a safe from the home of his adoptive parents and took £3,000 and a £2,000 gold watch in a burglary branded “mean and despicable” by a judge.

Martin Roberts, 18, of Shaun Close, Rhyl, who the judge said drank, gambled and used other “substances,” was sentenced to 12 months in a young offenders’ institution after he admitted the offence.

Caernarfon Crown Court heard the watch was recovered. Judge Michael Farmer said: “I have a public duty to perform. He will have time to reflect and hopefully grow up.”